Published on Monday, 2 November 2026 at 5:00PM
The Shire of Ashburton acknowledges the feedback received over recent weeks regarding Ben Cousins’ speaking engagement at the 2026 Ashburton Excellence Awards.
The Shire has taken the time to consider feedback provided since the event was first advertised in August and the appropriateness of Cousins as a guest speaker.
Specifically, the Shire has considered whether the choice of guest speaker aligns with its values and places the right emphasis on the groups and individuals being celebrated.
Following this consideration, the Shire confirms the Ashburton Excellence Awards events will proceed with Cousins as guest speaker.
The decision reflects the Shire’s commitment to delivering engaging events. Local feedback indicated interest in hearing from Cousins, who will speak about acknowledging and taking responsibility for his past actions and the lessons he has learnt.
The Shire looks forward to celebrating those who go above and beyond to strengthen and enrich our communities across the towns of Tom Price, Onslow, Paraburdoo and Pannawonica.
Back to All News